The Winslow Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its Good Morning Winslow business networking event, drawing together local business owners, community leaders and residents eager to learn about the newest developments in the area. Shawn White, publisher of The Painted Desert Tribune, was the main presenter for January’s meeting.
During his talk, White introduced a series of upcoming sections that will be added to the paper, that he says both reflects traditional interests and evolving reader demands. He announced plans for a health and fitness section, explaining that as community members become more proactive in maintaining healthier lifestyles.
He then revealed a new religion section, discussing how important spiritual life is for many living in Winslow and the larger region. While his team has already recruited a few local contributors, White stressed that there is space for more voices. He encouraged any religiously minded individuals to reach out if they wish to share perspectives, events and stories that reflect the diverse faith traditions in the community. In his view, including varied outlooks will keep coverage both inclusive and relevant.
White also highlighted plans for more comprehensive coverage of state and national legislature, specifically how laws and decisions made in both Arizona and Washington impact everyday life in Winslow and all the communities the Tribune serves. He emphasized that readers can expect to see detailed reports explaining new bills, as well as summaries of how local representatives and senators have voted. By offering in-depth insights and clear explanations, the paper hopes to empower residents to stay informed and engaged with government actions that affect their schools, businesses, and community resources.
Another expansion involves a hunting and fishing section to serve the many outdoor enthusiasts in the area. White sees these activities as significant parts of local culture and the economy. He hopes to find new contributors who are passionate about the outdoors, whether they focus on tips for safely exploring local wilderness areas or recipes that feature the region’s abundant game and fish. By bringing in firsthand knowledge from residents, the paper can offer a genuine reflection of one the area’s most popular past times.
White spoke enthusiastically about enhancing coverage of business and finance, seeking to help local entrepreneurs understand current economic conditions, investment strategies and resources available to small businesses.
In addition to adding these new sections, The Painted Desert Tribune plans to revamp traditional areas of the paper. White mentioned that the events section will soon feature more frequent updates, so that locals will never miss a gathering or opportunity to connect. The sports and police reporting sections will also receive upgrades, with information displayed more clearly, it can serve residents better at communicating the state of their community.
White then discussed the launch of a new app and newsletters designed to get news out to the public more regularly and with faster turnaround times. He emphasized the importance of verifying information before publication, he told the audience that an October incident in which another news app falsely reported a breakout at a local prison inspired his decision to get an app and to get one quickly.
By focusing on timely, fact-checked stories, The Painted Desert Tribune hopes to become a trusted source across both digital and traditional platforms.
Local businesses will benefit from a new coupon section, which White described as a valuable partnership between merchants and the paper. For a monthly fee of $150, businesses can place coupons that appear in print, on the website, in newsletters, and on social media, ensuring wide coverage throughout Navajo County. By offering discounts and promotions, the paper aims to attract readers to support local retailers, restaurants, and service providers. All of this is offered to locals and will cost as little as $30 a week. For more information contact him directly at shawnwhite@yourtrib.com.
He concluded his announcement by sharing details of a new partnership with Mother Roads Farmer’s Market. White and Market Manager Laurie Lashomb announced a new dual membership program. For an annual fee of $100, community members can sign up for a dual membership that includes a one-year subscription to the newspaper, a co-branded tote bag and window decal, and $20 in “market bucks” redeemable at the farmer’s market. During market season, The Painted Desert Tribune will serve as an informational companion guide, printing everything from vendor coupons to recipe ideas that highlight fresh, seasonal produce. The section will also include interviews and stories of the neighbors that make the market what it is.
Following White’s presentation, other chamber members provided news on their upcoming endeavors. Heather Pruett discussed a Super Bowl fundraiser aimed at raising funds for Alice’s Place. Brandee Leary announced that the new library will be ready very soon, complete with fresh programs such as “Books and Brews,” an event for those aged 21 and over to socialize over their favorite reads.
The Painted Desert Tribune’s expansions and partnerships signal a dynamic future for local media, as one of Arizona’s last small business owned newspapers. White believes that this means the paper can do an even better job at serving the community and reflecting its values and culture.
